Career: Electricians
Every day we flip light switches, turn on computers, adjust the air-conditioning, and run microwaves. It all works like magic, thanks to electricians.
They’re some of the first workers at a construction site, providing the builders with light and power. During construction, they run the wires and cables that carry electricity into the building. And when it’s complete, electricians flip the switch that fills the building with light, changing it from an empty shell into a place where people can live and work.
Electricians install, test, and repair electrical systems. They put in wires, connect them to circuit breakers, and test circuitry for safety, following local and national building codes.
“I like interacting with people and putting things together from blueprint to finished product.”
Mike, Electrical Apprentice
Are You Ready To...?
- Exercise caution to avoid shocks
- Pay attention to safety requirements
- Spend hours working in hot, dusty, or cramped areas
- Work while standing on ladders or scaffolding
- Work nights or weekends on jobs that require round-the-clock maintenance
It Helps to Be...
Good with your hands, steady, alert, and focused. Electrical systems only work when everything is just right, so start paying attention to details now.
Make High School Count
- Take algebra. It’s a requirement for entry into apprenticeship programs. Geometry is also important.
- Study physics, so you can begin your training with a solid knowledge of how electricity works.
- Mechanical drawing and shop will introduce you to drafting and the use of tools.
- Build computer skills, especially if you plan on running your own business.
- Take English seriously. You’ll need to read everything from blueprints to safety regulations.
- Get work experience. Consider volunteering with a nonprofit such as Habitat for Humanity.
Did You Know?
- Specially trained electricians work in film, TV, and theater.
Outlook
Government economists expect jobs for electricians to grow as fast as the average for all careers through 2016. Growth in new construction, including new power plants, means that electricians will be needed to outfit those buildings. There’s also more for electricians to do since new buildings tend to be prewired for high-tech equipment such as computers.
In fact, there will probably be more openings than qualified job seekers. However, electricians can be hurt by downturns in the economy, when fewer new projects are begun.
Compensation
The average yearly salary for electricians in 2008 was $49,890, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Keep in mind that apprentices start work at 40 to 50 percent of the salary earned by experienced workers. You can expect to receive raises throughout your training though, often every six months.
Most electricians join the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Union electricians generally earn more than nonunion workers.
